Volkswagen's MQB underpins everything from the VW Golf to Audi's TT coupe, and there are more MQB-based cars to come. Volvo is keen to get in on the action with its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), which will debut in the upcoming XC90 SUV and then extend across the Swedish manufacturer's range.

Volvo's scalable platform was developed totally in house and is the result of four years of work. Like VW's MQB, SPA allows Volvo to use the same platform as the basis for all of its powertrain, suspension and electrical systems, granting the potential for hybrid models throughout its range.

The economic benefits that come with scalable architecture are clear: Volvo doesn't have to develop a standalone platform for each of its new cars, which saves on development and manufacturing costs through economies of scale.